EF-2 Tornado Causes Extensive Damage Across Eastern Wayne and Bollinger Counties

Wayne Co., Mo. (KFMO) - An EF-2 tornado swept through parts of eastern Wayne County and Bollinger County Wednesday evening, leaving behind significant damage but fortunately no injuries or fatalities. The storm, which lasted from 6:09 p.m. to 6:22 p.m., was characterized by peak winds of 125 mph.

The tornado first touched down near the McGee community in far eastern Wayne County, where it began its east-northeastward path. As it moved across TT Highway and P Highway, it caused extensive tree damage. Once the tornado crossed into Bollinger County, its intensity increased. It caused severe damage along County Road 720, where an A-frame home was severely impacted and a church lost much of its roof.

Continuing eastward, the tornado caused additional damage along County Road 714, where more trees were downed. The storm lifted just northeast of the Arab community, after tearing off the roof of a house on County Road 618.

The tornado's total track length was 8.4 miles, with a maximum width of 175 yards. Despite the widespread damage, emergency officials confirmed there were no injuries or fatalities related to the storm. Residents in the affected areas are now beginning to assess the damage and clean up in the wake of the powerful storm.